Vajza Fest 2026 blends sport and culture in Amantia

The fourth edition of ‘Vajza Fest’ took place in the village of Vajzë, Selenicë, blending sports, culture, and heritage. The event featured an Olympic Flame ceremony at the Amantia Archaeological Park, where athletes participated in various disciplines amidst ancient monuments.

Prime Minister Edi Rama attended the festivities, making a public appearance alongside Supreme Court Chairman Sokol Sadushi and former President Bamir Topi. During his speech, Rama used humor to address the event, noting he had accepted the invitation after four years of previous refusals.

The festival also served as a backdrop for political tension regarding territorial reform. Selenicë Mayor Nertil Bellaj, who has publicly opposed the proposal to merge the municipality with Vlorë, highlighted local natural resources, including the discovery of saltwater in certain areas. Rama responded with irony to the Mayor’s comments regarding the presence of seawater in the mountains.